Secondary Metabolites and Biological Activities of the Mangrove Apple (Sonneratia alba)

Sonneratia alba Sm. (Lythraceae), a mangrove species is widely distributed across the tropical regions in Africa, Asia, and Australia. It is commonly known as “mangrove apple” and is assessed as “Least Concern” in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List due to its abundance. The tree is known for its edible fruit that plays an important role in local cuisines and traditional medicine, particularly, in countries like India and Indonesia. Leaves and roots have been found to contain a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, steroids, triterpenoids, saponins, tannins, and phenols, which contribute to their medicinal properties. Major eudesmane-type sesquiterpene glycosides named sonneratiosides have been identified in S. alba emphasizing the plant’s potential as a natural therapeutic agent. Extensive research has highlighted the biological activities of S. alba, including antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory. This chapter presents a comprehensive overview of S. alba, focusing on its medicinal significance. It details the bioactive compounds found in different parts of S. alba, such as leaves, roots, and fruits that contribute to its wide range of biological activities. The promising potential of S. alba as a source of medicinal compounds and its relevance in traditional remedies across various regions is also discussed.